The Future of Mobile Computing

Report Highlights

• The global market for mobile computing was almost $55.6 billion in 2005 and $63.5 billion in 2006. At an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 7.0%, this market will reach more than $88.9 billion by 2011.
• Smartphones have the highest growth rate through the forecast period. With a 15.7% AAGR through 2011, this market will reach almost $17.8 billion by 2011.
• The largest market share belongs to notebook computers. In 2006, notebook computers held 84.% of the total global market. By the end of 2011, this share will reach more than 96%, worth $69.2 billion.

INTRODUCTION

The goal of BCC Research in conducting this study was to determine the current status of mobile computing and assess its growth potential from 2005 to 2006 and over the subsequent 5-year period to 2011. Various types of computers, ranging from notebooks and Tablet PCs to handhelds and smartphones, present a large and growing market.

Mobile computing is an extension of the functions that were previously contained in a central location in the early days of computing. From a notebook to a smartphone, technology is enabling information to be available to just about everyone.

SCOPE OF STUDY

This report:

• Provides comprehensive market assessment of mobile computing and the sector's growth potential through 2011. Covers devices such as computers, notebooks, tablet PCs, handhelds, smartphones, and all other mobile devices. Analysis includes markets for chipsets and internal processors, operating systems, application software, wireless technologies and broadband connections.
• Examines the current position of mobile computing via five major platforms. Within each platform, an overview of the key advantages, an analysis of market factors that will impact demand and projected shipments of mobile computing products and their value for 2005, 2006 and 2011 are presented.
• Estimates the unit distribution of mobile computing activity by businesses and consumers, and analyzes units of each platform by application.
• Analyzes the mobile computing industry on a worldwide basis, including manufacturing capability and consumption in various regional markets. This study also analyzes industry involvement in standards and evaluates other pertinent factors related to the success of mobile computing.
• Profiles leading companies in the mobile computing business and recent industry developments, includes patent analysis, market shares and more.

METHODOLOGY

BCC Research presents an analysis for each mobile computing platform of the number of units shipped in 2005. Estimated value is what manufacturers have paid in undepreciated 2006 dollars. Then, based on BCC Research surveys, we analyze the potential market for each industry and forecast shipments for 2006 and 2011. The report also analyzes the value of shipments, shipments by type of user, and shipments by application.

INFORMATION SOURCES

BCC Research surveyed approximately 110 companies to obtain data for this study. Included were computer, mobile computer, handheld device, and cell phone manufacturers, developers of operating systems, makers of chip sets, wireless service providers, storage product developers, and makers of various accessories. BCC also spoke with companies that develop electronic games, global positioning software and equipment, and display manufacturers. Research also included various research laboratories and companies that engage in mobile products research. In addition, BCC Research compiled data from current financial and trade information and government sources.